defective finish on shower now exposing brass

ITBarbie

Hi,

I purchased a black Square Thermostatic Bar Valve & Shower Kit from a large online retailer, and it was fitted by a reputable plumber. Within two to three months, I noticed discolouration on the edge of the control bar. This has since worsened, and it is now clear that the brass is visible where the coating has, I presume, eroded.

I contacted the company after having the shower for eight months, as it was still under warranty. They asked what products I used to clean it, and I replied that I used Ecover bathroom spray and Viakal once a week.

The company responded by stating that the damage was caused by products they classify as detergents or abrasives. They referred me to an excerpt from their fitting instructions, which I had not reviewed, as I am not a plumber and did not carry out the installation myself:

"To maintain the appearance, please ensure it is cleaned regularly using a clean soft damp cloth only. Abrasive cleaners or detergents must not be used as they may cause surface deterioration."

I believe it is unreasonable to expect people not to clean a shower and feel the product is not fit for purpose. I have made every effort to resolve the matter with the company, but they are unwilling to change their position.  Sadly for me I have found out they are part of this group who have dreadful reviews. 

I have involved my bank, who are investigating, and I have even considered taking the matter to the small claims court.

Should I simply move on, or does it sound like I have a valid case on the face of it?

Thanks for reading 🙂

Ergates

ITBarbie said:

I believe it is unreasonable to expect people not to clean a shower

They're not expecting you not to clean it, they're expecting you to clean it following the cleaning instructions they provided.

They provided the instructions to you and you chose not to read them - I don't think you'd win a case in court.

photome

Agree with Ergates, they have said clean with clean soft damp cloth, without detergent, you chose to use detergents, there is a warning on viakal bottles stating what not to use it on

Viakal should not be used on acid-sensitive surfaces like gold, silver, copper, or aluminum, as well as on colored or damaged enamel, natural stone, or household appliances. 

ITBarbie

Many thanks for your reply, which has provided me with the perspective I needed.

eskbanker

I'm not convinced that 'fitting instructions' is a particularly suitable location for ongoing product care information, in the context of an item that's likely to be owned and used by someone other than the installer, but was that the only documentation provided?

Loza2016

If it makes you feel any better I have also ruined two sets of chrome taps with viakal. 

sheenas

Yes, wet water only, if your water is like here in Scotland soft then all the better, else maybe use bottled water to avoid tide marks.

Skiddaw1

Blimey. It's awful high maintanance for a shower isn't it?

ITBarbie

Loza2016 said:

If it makes you feel any better I have also ruined two sets of chrome taps with viakal. 

In fairness it does make me feel better as who the hell just wipes a shower/tap with just a cloth.  

ITBarbie

sheenas said:

Yes, wet water only, if your water is like here in Scotland soft then all the better, else maybe use bottled water to avoid tide marks.

Hard water here sadly hence viakal 

ITBarbie

Skiddaw1 said:

Blimey. It's awful high maintanance for a shower isn't it?

You live and learn! Thought I was ensuring longevity